Top 10 Most Famous and Beautiful Rivers in Vietnam

Son River, also known as the Tróc River, is a tributary of the Gianh River in North Central Vietnam. It flows entirely within Quang Binh Province, with part of its 7.729-meter-long upper stream running underground through the limestone mountains in the western part of the province. The river originates from the Phong Nha cave, located in Phong Nha village, Son Trach commune, Bo Trach district. The Son River's enchanting turquoise waters wind through the majestic limestone mountain ranges of Ke Bang, adding a unique charm to the area, especially when visitors explore the Phong Nha cave system. Moreover, the Son River is deeply tied to local legends about loyalty in love, leaving lasting memories for travelers. Located south of the Ngang Pass, Quang Binh is known for its historical sites and scenic attractions, including the Deo Deo Deo, Mẹ Suốt Ferry, Phong Nha Cave, Tien Son Cave, Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Nhat Le Beach, Da Nhay, Bang Hot Springs, and more. Among them, the Son River is famous for its stunning beauty, and its legend of passionate, tragic love. The Son River is regarded as one of the last pristine rivers, offering a breathtaking natural landscape gifted by nature.

The enchanting greenish-blue waters of the Son River curl around the limestone peaks of Ke Bang, creating a picturesque scene every time tourists visit Quang Binh for the Phong Nha Cave. According to legend, the name 'Son' stems from the love story of a young couple who were deeply in love but whose relationship was opposed by their families due to social differences. Heartbroken, the couple took their lives by drowning in the river, and locals, moved by their tragic love, named the river after their undying devotion. Visitors to the area can feel the beauty of the river through its clear waters, the surrounding mountains, and the peaceful landscape along its banks. The first thing you'll notice is the vibrant blue color of the water. The river meanders gracefully, flowing around cornfields and banana plantations, hugging the peaceful rural villages on its banks. The surroundings create a serene, idyllic landscape that resembles a living watercolor painting—a peaceful and beautiful life in the vast wilderness. Besides the natural beauty, tourists can also enjoy rowing a boat along the river to explore its untamed beauty. Not to mention, visitors can taste local delicacies, including the famous live carp from the Son River, along with other unique regional specialties found along its banks.

The Ngo Dong River is a small stream located in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. It is a tributary of the Sao Khe River, which connects the Hoang Long River to the Vac River. The Ngo Dong River begins in the wetlands within the limestone mountain range of the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, flowing through the cliffs and rice fields before joining the Vac River near Vung Tram Bridge. The river is surrounded by beautiful landmarks such as Tam Coc and the Thai Vi Temple, which are famous tourist attractions in Ninh Binh. Visitors often paddle boats along the Ngo Dong River, immersing themselves in the picturesque landscape along both riverbanks. The towering limestone cliffs, shaped over millennia, create a stunning backdrop. The best time to visit is during April and May, when the rice fields along the riverbanks are golden and ripe, creating a mesmerizing sight.

The Ngo Dong River is perhaps one of the most scenic and tranquil rivers in Vietnam, located about 100 km from Hanoi and just 7 km from Ninh Binh City. Its crystal-clear waters flow gently year-round. According to local tourism sources, the river originates from the wetlands in the heart of the limestone mountains of the Trang An World Heritage site, starting from the Suoi Tien Temple area and winding its way through cliffs and rice fields before merging with the Vac River near Vung Tram Bridge. What makes the Ngo Dong River unique is that it lacks defined banks—its boundaries are marked by the surrounding rice fields, making it more of a winding waterway between vast fields and wetlands. Along its path, visitors can also explore two stunning landmarks: Tam Coc and the Thai Vi Temple. At the end of May, when the rice turns golden, the beauty of Ngo Dong River becomes even more captivating, attracting visitors with its vibrant hues and the fragrant scent of ripening rice.

Despite the scorching heat, with temperatures soaring to 40°C, the coolness of the river and the occasional breeze carrying the fresh scent of rice creates a feeling of walking through a cool autumn day. During the dry season, fertile riverbanks emerge, and local farmers take the opportunity to plant rice, which grows steadily with the rising water until it ripens in a brilliant golden hue, ready for harvest.

Han River in Da Nang is a graceful and alluring waterway, much like a young maiden in her prime. Its waters are clean and fresh, untouched by pollution, making the river even more enchanting, a muse for poets and artists alike.

The riverbanks are lined with Tran Hung Dao and Bach Dang streets, where the trees create a cooling shade, perfectly aligned in neat rows. This peaceful scene paints a beautiful picture of the river, gently flowing through a vibrant city that is rapidly growing. At dawn, when the streets are still quiet and only a few locals walk along the river for their morning exercise, the river is shrouded in a thin mist that gradually fades as the first rays of sunlight break through. The light on the water is soft, like a silk ribbon brushed with the whiteness of the mist. The river flows steadily toward the sea, while a cool breeze lingers, as if not wanting to wake the city from its peaceful slumber.

By midday, the scene transforms completely, with the mist evaporated, replaced by the golden light of the sun. The sunlight dances across the river, creating shimmering patterns that mirror the rhythm of life, as the city grows busier and more energetic. At noon, the surface of the river becomes like a giant mirror, dazzling anyone who gazes upon it, reflecting the bright silver shimmer that makes the river look almost magical. Han River in Da Nang now resembles a radiant maiden, glowing with beauty and charm, yet without being shy or withdrawn. As evening falls, the intense sun softens, its rays hiding behind the clouds and the distant mountains. The river surface mirrors the crimson glow of the setting sun, and the river enters a more tranquil phase, no longer as lively as it was at midday. As night approaches, the darkness settles over the river, but the magic continues as the city lights begin to illuminate the scene. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the river’s mysterious allure.

As night descends, the river seems to don a dazzling gown, adorned with an array of colors, one of the many beautiful scenes in Da Nang. No longer bathed in the golden sunlight of the morning or the pure white mist of dawn, Han River’s transformation throughout the day is mesmerizing. Indeed, Da Nang is even more enchanting at night, with the Han River enhancing the city’s vibrant landscape, especially with the bustling bridges that connect both sides of the river.

Thu Bon River is a popular tourist destination in Hoi An, with a vast basin stretching over 10.3 km², making it one of the largest inland river basins in Vietnam. This river is deeply intertwined with history and culture, continuing to shape the landscape as it flows through time, bringing fertile silt to create its delta. Originating from several small streams descending from the Ngoc Linh Mountains, Thu Bon River bursts with life as it flows through majestic mountains, past the western part of Quang Nam, and through lush rice fields, nourishing the land with vitality. The river stretches nearly 100 kilometers from Tra Linh Wharf down to Cua Dai, where it becomes the meeting point of two ancient cultures—Cham and Viet. Many international visitors are awestruck by the unique and spectacular beauty of the river, often comparing it to India’s famous Ganges River, a timeless waterway that carries the legacy of history across generations.

At sunset, when the golden light reflects off the water, the river’s scenic beauty blends with the lush green banks, the mulberry groves, riverside villages, and famous Hoi An landmarks such as Hon Kem Da Dung, Nong Son coal mine, Dai Buong fruit village, and Tam Thanh’s painted village. These create a breathtaking view. Drifting along on a simple wooden boat, visitors can stop by Trung Phuoc Market, witnessing the bustling, vibrant market atmosphere while still capturing the rustic charm of a traditional rural market. Sitting down at a local eatery to enjoy a bowl of Quang noodles amidst the homely ambiance, visitors experience the authentic flavors of the region. Photography enthusiasts will delight in capturing the picturesque moments along the Thu Bon River, with its beautiful riverbanks and surrounding landscapes.

"Mother River" Thu Bon not only provides abundant fish and shrimp for the local fishermen but has also supported the growth of renowned craft villages like Nong Son’s incense village, Duy Xuyen’s silk weaving village, and Thanh Ha’s pottery village in Hoi An. These artisans have sent their famous products down the river, through Hoi An’s port, to the rest of the world since the 17th century. Every March, the people of Duy Xuyen hold the Thu Bon Mother Festival to honor the river that has bestowed them with agricultural and silk weaving skills. On this day, villagers row boats to bring the spirit of “Mother Thu Bon” to each home, symbolizing a spiritual connection that ensures abundant harvests and prosperity. The Thu Bon River reaches Cua Dai, where it creates a magnificent, poetic scene with expansive waters and fishing villages, golden nets shimmering in the sunset. Before meeting the sea, the “Mother River” surges in majestic waves, laden with fertile silt, ready to merge with the vast ocean. And so, “Mother Thu Bon” fulfills its mission, enriching the fields and culture of the people of Quang Nam.

Lam River, once known as Sông Cả (the Mother River), carries the deep significance of both largeness and motherhood. The name “Cả” signifies the river’s vastness and its role as the source of smaller tributaries such as Nậm Nơm, Nậm Mộ, Giăng River, and La River. The river’s clear waters, flowing through picturesque mountains and villages, have inspired many poets and artists over the centuries, who have given it poetic names like 'Lam Giang,' 'Thanh Long Giang,' and 'Lam Thuỷ.' These names reflect the river’s serene beauty, immortalized in countless poems and songs. Lam River, with its calm, turquoise waters, not only represents a stunning landscape of Nghệ An but also plays an integral role in the livelihoods of the people living along its banks. The tranquil, picturesque scenery has found its place in the hearts of many, appearing in songs and poems that celebrate the peaceful life of Nghệ An.

For generations, the people of Nghệ An, especially those from Thành Vinh, have recognized the beauty of Lam River and yearned to experience its scenic charm. Visitors to Nghệ An still seek to journey along its banks to enjoy the lush green hills, clear waters, local delicacies, and the traditional folk songs and tunes of this historically rich region. The peaceful waters and picturesque surroundings have made Lam River not only a beloved spot for poetry but also a key tourist destination in the “green hills, blue waters” landscape of Nghệ An.

Though it meanders gently through the land, Lam River leaves an unforgettable impression. From above, the river looks like a flowing ribbon, curving gracefully, almost as if it wants to soar upwards with the mist and sunlight. This river is the symbol of love and longing, and it has become a cherished memory for many who have felt its quiet, enduring beauty. Lam River, forever etched in the hearts of those who have crossed it, whispers the song of nostalgia through its winding path.

Flowing gracefully around the Imperial Citadel, the Royal Palace, and the Forbidden Purple City, the Perfume River enhances the natural beauty of this historic capital. Stretching over 80 km, with a 30 km stretch from Bằng Lãng to the Thuận An estuary, the river has long been a source of inspiration for poets and writers. Much like the Seine River in Paris, Perfume River is inseparable from the image of Hue, a city rich in culture and history.

Formed by the confluence of the Tả Trạch and Hữu Trạch rivers, Perfume River flows like a delicate silk ribbon, winding through the dreamlike landscape of the ancient capital. It passes through lush Vĩ Dạ gardens, the ancient Thiên Mụ Pagoda with its resonating bell tones, and drifts into the Bạch Yến River, weaving through the fragrant tropical flora. As it meanders, the river absorbs the scents of countless flowers, herbs, and plants, creating a distinctive aroma that is a signature of this river. The river takes on a different beauty throughout the day. By day, it is calm and serene, with its emerald green waters reflecting the peaceful cityscape under the gentle sunlight. The reflections of temples, gardens, and mountains on the river’s tranquil surface make Perfume River an enduring part of Hue’s enchanting landscape.

As evening falls, the river is bathed in a warm golden-orange glow. The surroundings quiet down in a rare stillness, and the river takes on a soft lavender hue. Perhaps it is this tranquility that has earned Hue the nickname “The City of Sadness.” As night descends, boats continue to glide along the river, their traditional songs echoing softly in the still air, adding a layer of introspection. The Trang Tien Bridge lights up with vibrant, colorful lamps, illuminating the serene waters below. On the riverbanks, the soft glow of lanterns flickers in the dark. If you visit Hue during a festival, you’ll see the river come alive with the dazzling display of floating lanterns, adding a magical touch to the already mystical scene. The beauty of Perfume River has been immortalized in poetry and art, but it’s only through firsthand experience that one can truly appreciate the river’s poetic and magical allure. This gentle river, which flows through Hue year-round, remains a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.

Originating from the northern part of Svay Rieng province in Cambodia, the Vam Co Dong River is known as Prek Kampong Spean in Khmer. Upon crossing into Vietnam, it is referred to as Sông Cái Cay in the local dialect. The river stretches over 280 km, with 180 km flowing through Vietnam. The river winds its way through lush villages and fertile lands on both sides of the border, bringing prosperity to the local residents. Travelers passing along its banks often feel the allure of the river’s poetic charm, steeped in legends and historical tales, capturing the essence of life on the water.

Tracing the rich history of the Vam Co Dong River, we find that it has been a silent witness to centuries of change. Ancient texts refer to it as the Quang Hoa or Khê Lang River. In the early records of Gia Định Thành Thông Chí, compiled during the Nguyen dynasty, the river’s role in trade and defense is well-documented. It was a crucial route for emissaries from Cambodia to pass, carrying goods and tribute through the region. Today, the river continues to serve as a vital lifeline, but its historical depth makes it a subject of intrigue and reflection. As the river divides into two branches, the northern path, known as Cái Bát, leads towards the north, while the southern fork, Sông Cái Cay, travels westward, both passing through lush, remote forests of Quang Hoa.

The Mekong River, also known as Sông Cửu Long, flows through the lush Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam, a region famous for its rice paddies and bountiful harvests. It is one of the longest rivers in the world, originating in China and winding its way through Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia before entering Vietnam and finally flowing into the South China Sea through nine distinct river mouths. This is how it earned the name 'Cửu Long', meaning 'Nine Dragons', symbolizing the many paths the river takes to the sea.

The Mekong River, or 'Mother River' as it’s called in Laos, stretches over 4,500 km and is the 12th longest river globally. It has been known by many names in the regions it traverses—Dza Chu in China, Lạn Thương Giang in Vietnam, and Tonlé Thom in Cambodia. Unlike the Nile or the Ganges, there has never been a singular Mekong culture uniting all its riparian nations. Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia fall under South Asian cultural influences, while China and Vietnam align with East Asian traditions. The river plays a critical role in the agricultural richness of Vietnam, especially in the Mekong Delta, where it deposits fertile silt, making this region the rice basket of the country.

The Mekong Delta is also famous for its abundance of tropical fruits like durian, mangosteen, pomelo, and oranges. It serves as a vital source of fish and other aquatic life, while also providing the primary network of transportation for the area. The river nourishes the southern provinces, where vast fields of rice stretch endlessly, shimmering under the sunlight, offering a stunning view of lush, green waves during the wet season, and golden fields during the harvest time.

One of the most talked-about destinations in Ha Giang is the Nho Quế River, famous for flowing beneath the legendary Mã Pí Lèng Pass. To fully explore the beauty of this river, you can ride a motorbike along a local trail that winds along the mountainside, running parallel to the river below. Some sections require detours due to deep gorges and high mountains. The towering cliffs on both sides form a narrow and deep canyon, and the sound of the Nho Quế River rushing beneath you creates an indescribable feeling—simultaneously thrilling and immersive in the vastness of the surrounding mountains and sky.

The Nho Quế River is a must-see attraction in Ha Giang. Originating from Nghiễm Sơn Mountain in Yunnan (China), it flows from the northwest to the southeast, crossing into Vietnam. While the river passes through both Ha Giang and Cao Bằng, the most captivating section starts from Séo Lủng Village in Lũng Cú, winding through the Tu Sản Gorge. This segment is considered the most scenic and mesmerizing. Visitors often stop at the Mã Pí Lèng Pass to take in the full splendor of the river. Though this pass is notorious for its treacherous path, with steep cliffs on one side and a deep abyss on the other, the mist that blankets the road only adds to the mystique, making it challenging to navigate the sharp bends.

Despite the danger, many adventurers, especially experienced motorcyclists, are eager to conquer the 20km stretch of this pass. From the summit, looking down into the abyss, you get a breathtaking view of the river and feel the grandeur of Ha Giang’s nature. If you’ve ever stood atop the Mã Pí Lèng Pass and gazed down at the Nho Quế River, you’ll no doubt wish to experience the river up close. To make this dream come true, take a boat trip along the vibrant green waters of the river.

The Hoai River is a branch of the Thu Bon River that flows through Hoi An. For the locals and visitors alike, it is an inseparable symbol of the ancient town. This tranquil river is deeply intertwined with the daily life of Hoi An’s residents, many of whom make their living by rowing boats and guiding tourists along its peaceful waters. What makes this place unique is the traditional way the boats are rowed, without any mechanical engines, allowing visitors to truly experience the ancient, serene atmosphere of the town. As you drift down the river, not only do you enjoy the beautiful sights of the ancient town, but you also hear fascinating stories from the boatmen. The sound of the oars dipping in the water fills the air, adding to the calm and peaceful spirit of the place.

The Hoai River is a charming, peaceful waterway that flows through the heart of the ancient town. It is a precious gift from nature, providing a refreshing breeze to the town while offering a unique landscape of boats on the water. At night, the scene transforms with colorful lanterns casting their glow over the river, creating a vibrant and enchanting atmosphere. During festivals, the Hoai River attracts many tourists, offering the perfect vantage point for enjoying the ancient town at night. The shimmering lights of the lanterns and the floating flowers create a magical scene that blends perfectly with the historical charm of the old town. On full moon nights, the best of Hoi An is revealed to visitors as the river comes alive with a beautiful display of lights and colors. The full moon festival is a recreation of life in the early 20th century when Hoi An was a bustling trading port. The lanterns are like the gentle, soulful gaze of the ancient town, while the floating lanterns on the Hoai River create a true festival of light.

The Hoai River is famous for its dazzling beauty, especially during the lantern festivals. The boats, which transport tourists and locals alike, float along the river, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. The small boats, filled with smiling faces, contribute to the simplicity and beauty of the river, creating snapshots of everyday life in this tranquil corner of the world.